Try this slow, yet hard-swinging shuffle on your next big band outing. The bluesy sound emphasizes the groove and is accessible for developing groups. Written especially for the Lincoln Middle School Jazz Band in Pullman, Washington, this chart includes a written alto sax solo, though the composer encourages students to improvise over the entire solo section using a five-note cell on which to base their ideas. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included. Duration 4:05. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players)

As one of the most important American music forms, the blues is an essential concept for developing students who are learning about jazz improvisation and ensemble playing. This easy level swinger has it all -- a strong melody, solid ensemble writing and an open solo section (written solos provided). Scored for 12-17 players, optional parts for flute, clarinet, horn in F, tuba and vibes are included. Duration 2:55. standard jazz ensemble (playable by 12-17 pieces)

Whether your ensemble has some experience or is in the developmental stages, this tuneful chart is suitable for all performance situations, particularly festivals. All instruments have interesting parts to play, ranges are reasonable, and rhythm parts are completely notated with chord symbols provided. Written or ad lib solo space is offered to alto sax, tenor sax, trumpet, and trombone. The final six bars of the chart reveal a clever ending that explains the title. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included. Duration 3:00. standard jazz ensemble plus opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba & vibes (playable by 10-17 players)

Amen is a medium-up tempo gospel-swing, influenced by Horace Silver´s The Preacher. Mike Titlebaum underlayed the bluesy melodies, developed throughout the arrangement, with a driving shuffle rhythm, first introduced by the trombones in the intro. There is a written trombone solo included but the solo section can be opened up for any other instrument. Amen is based on the etude with the same name from Jim Snidero´s "Jazz Conception Series". 1st Tpt: E (top of staff). Grade 2-3

Originally released in 1956, this arrangement of the iconic Meacham tune opens with a short written alto solo before launching into a satisfying series of sax and brass solis, unisons and full-ensemble shouts. All rhythm section parts are fully notated, brass ranges are very accessible, and no improvisation is required. Duration 2:20 standard jazz ensemble (playable by 3 saxes, 3 brass plus rhythm section) with opt. tuba & vibes

Emulating the music of jazz greats Tito Puente and Eddie Palmieri, this funky Latin original with a 3:2 clave groove features a trumpet section soli, a written or ad lib trumpet solo, and a roaring ensemble chorus, making it an exciting choice for developing groups. Each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson. Duration 4:40. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) plus opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba and vibes

medium swing chart features a beautifully harmonized sax section soli. It is perfect for a change of pace in any program and it gives your brass section a change to rest. Instead of the written trombone solo you may want to feature your improvising guitarist or pianist. Autumn is based on the etude with the same name from Jim Snidero´s "Jazz Conception Series". 1st Tpt: G (top of staff). Grade 2-3

This accessible original features a variety of rhythmic figures commonly used in rock and funk charts. Designed to make developing groups sound their best, it derives its title from the "back and forth" feeling in the rhythm section parts. Although loaded with great learning material, the piece is simply fun to play and will leave bands and audiences whistling the melody. The piano and bass parts are fully notated with chord symbols provided. The solo section features written or ad lib solos for any player using the solo sheets provided. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included. Duration 4:30. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players)

The lines of this arrangement are divided contrapuntally into two sections -- trumpets/altos and trombones/tenors. These lines should be played in a relaxed fashion at a mezzo forte volume, with short quarter notes throughout. At the ensemble chorus at measure 69, strive for good balance and a very full, well-supported sound. standard jazz ensemble

Kendor continues its tradition of publishing accessible jazz charts that have integrity and style with this Les Sabina offering. The title of this swing original refers to the confidence-building block voicings that allow developing musicians to work towards uniform jazz phrasing and articulations. An "as is" or "ad lib" solo for tenor saxophone is provided, but the solo section can be opened up for additional players. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included. Duration 3:15. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) plus opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba and vibes

This swing excursion commissioned by the School District 45 Jazz Band in Villa Park (IL) serves equally well as a concert opener or closer, and will teach and/or reinforce the basic rhythms that every jazz musician should know. While easy-to-hear solo changes will give students the opportunity to work on improvisational skills, sample solos for all instruments are provided. Rhythm section parts are notated with chords cued. Duration 2:45. standard jazz ensemble (playable by 12-17 pieces)

An ideal Basie-style opener for your next concert or festival performance, this features the 1st Alto and 1st Trombone players. All the elements are present for a swinging performance - a classic "2" feel in the opening moments, call and response, dramatic dynamic contrasts, and an exciting shout chorus. You won't want to miss this accessible chart for developing groups! A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set. Duration 2:30. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players)

Despite the title, this piece is more blues-based than an actual blues chart. Scored especially for Kendor's Jazz Gateway Series, it is perfect for developing groups. Dense ensemble writing and accessible rhythmic figures support the tuneful melody. All instruments have interesting parts to play, ranges are reasonable, and rhythm parts are notated with chords symbols provided. Written or ad lib solo space is provided for any instrument. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set. Duration 3:00 standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players)

This very accessible Latin chart in the bossa nova style employs a tuneful melody supported by a sophisticated chord progression and solid orchestration. Scored with a thorough understanding of the capabilities of developing jazz musicians, it contains great learning material and is fun to play. The piano part is fully notated with chord symbols provided, and the guitar part consists primarily of chord changes and slashes. Trombone and alto saxophone are featured on written solos with chord changes provided for players who wish to attempt improvisation. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set. Duration 3:25. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players)

This piece is an effective blues original designed especially for developing groups. Whether your ensemble has some experience or is in the developmental stages, this chart is suitable for all performance situations, particularly festivals. Dense ensemble writing supports the tuneful melody and a fun sax soli is included. All instruments have interesting parts that are well articulated, the ranges are reasonable, and the rhythm parts are notated with chord symbols provided. Due to the accessible blues progression, the writer encourages everyone to get into the spotlight using the solo sheets provided. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set. Duration 3:30. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players)

Ideal for developing groups, this rollicking rock excursion is destined to be the hit at your next performance. Supported by an infectious groove, the accessible melody is shared by the saxophone and brass sections. Solo space is given to tenor saxophone and can be played as written or ad lib. This exhilarating piece builds to a big finish at the shout chorus. Each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson. Duration 3:30. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) with opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba and vibes

This swinging jazz waltz for developing big bands will showcase the precision of your ensemble with its compelling melody, solos for tenor and trumpet, and an engaging shout chorus. Though written solos are provided, the solo changes are designed to encourage improvisation. Featuring Kendor Konvertible scoring for 9-17 players, it includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson and optional parts for flute, clarinet, horn in F, tuba and vibes. Duration 3:10. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players)

This innovative Yasinitsky original showcases trombone soloist throughout. The prevailing ballad style switches to double time swing during the main solo chorus for a refreshing change of pace, and harmonies feature the chord extensions normally found in more advanced charts. Though he provides written solo lines to conform with the requirements of our Konvertibles series, in his score notes Greg urges directors to encourage young soloists to try improvisation. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is also included with every set. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players)

As recorded by the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra on their Consummation album (Blue Note), this tender ballad in 3/4 time draws its strength and power from the purity of a simple melody line and delicate accompaniment figures. Soloists include piano and trumpet (or flugelhorn); an optional solo sheet for vocalist, featuring lyrics by Alec Wilder, is also included. Rhythm section parts are partially notated with chords cued. Duration 4:04. standard jazz ensemble plus opt. vocal; saxes have opt. flute or alto flute doubles

With the release of this chart, developing jazz bands finally have a chance to jump on the famous Chili Pepper bandwagon. Featuring all the rhythmic and melodic elements that have made its predecessors so popular, it includes sample solos for all and rhythm section parts that are notated with chords cued. The lively Latin groove can be played in either a "two" or "four" feel. Duration 3:15. standard jazz ensemble (playable by 12-17 pieces)

This engaging moderate swing original for developing groups is full of great teaching material. Based on chromatic scale patterns and contrapuntal writing, it will build sectional independence throughout the band. Written or ad lib solos are offered for all winds, and a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included. Duration 5:05. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) with opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba & vibes

This great minor blues tune features sturdy swing rhythms and a memorable melody shared by the horn sections of the band. Any instrument may be featured during the written or ad lib open solo section. Written especially for developing groups, it is playable by 10-17 players and includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson. Duration 3:50. standard jazz ensemble with opt. flute, clarinet, horn in f, tuba and vibes

This piece utilizes a variety of rhythmic figures commonly seen in swing charts, and employs a tuneful melody supported by a simple, yet effective chord progression and solid orchestration. Designed to make developing groups sound their best, it features flexible instrumentation, very accessible brass ranges, completely notated rhythm parts, and a nice sax soli for a piece that is great fun to play and hear. Written or ad lib solos are provided for 1st Alto and 1st Trumpet. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set. Duration 3:25. standard jazz ensemble (playable by 10-17 players) with opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba & vibes

Professional composer Carl Strommen has followed up his bestselling Line Drive with another great chart sporting a baseball title; this one refers to alternating two and four feels. As the chart repeatedly switches between a buoyant half-note pulse and a driving swing feel, the result is reminiscent of the music of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers. Written or ad lib solos for trumpet and tenor create a combo-like setting within the big band context that's well within the grasp of developing groups. Each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson. Duration 2:50. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) with opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba & vibes

Since the voicings in this arrangement are primarily linear, weaker players will have an opportunity to learn by listening -- most lines are doubled so that stronger players will be able to support the parts of players with less confidence or experience. standard jazz ensemble

Kendor continues its tradition of publishing accessible jazz charts that have integrity and style with this selection for developing groups set in a bright Latin feel. The introduction played by piano, bass and cowbell sets the stage for this spirited and authentic original. Suggested solos and percussion fills are provided for players less experienced in the Latin style. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included. Duration 4:20. standard jazz ensemble with opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba & vibes

The catchy groove in this original will have your audiences tapping their feet while offering developing bands a chance to hone their Latin skills. Brass ranges are moderate, rhythm section parts are fully notated, and 2nd Trumpet has a written solo. Friendly chord progressions in the two solo sections can be negotiated using notes from just one scale, and an ensemble passage that moves from a whisper to a roar is a special highlight. Latin percussion instruments -- congas, timbales, bongos, shaker, cowbell, etc. -- can be added if desired. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included. Duration 4:45. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) plus opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba and vibes

We welcome California jazz educator Mike Dana to the Kendor family of writers with this spirited Latin original for developing groups. Containing reasonable ranges and rhythmic figures, plus an exciting ending that will grab your audience, this will be a perfect closer! It offers room for two soloists who can really stretch out and explore the scales provided. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included. Duration ca. 4:15 standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) with opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba & vibes

You'll definitely want to add this relaxed salsa chart to your library! Either 1st Trumpet or lead alto can be featured by playing the catchy melody supported by sophisticated harmonic content. The composer offers excellent rehearsal suggestions that will allow you and your students to get the most out of this well written Latin excursion for developing groups. Each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson. Duration 2:55. standard jazz ensemble (playable by 10-17 players) with opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba & vibes

This solid bossa/rock tune for developing groups starts and ends strong. Crisp brass punctuations, a steady 8/8 feel, and an expandable solo section are highlights. For soloists lacking the confidence or experience to improvise, written lines for all instruments are provided on a solo sheet that comes with each set. Rhythm section parts are notated with chords cued. Duration 3:30. standard jazz ensemble (playable by 12-17 pieces)

Brass and sax unisons, easy figures and a rich harmonic structure will make this a big hit with everyone. The primary solo is reserved for trumpet (optional written solo provided), but piano adds some shorter solo lines and fills as well. Ensemble parts should be played light and tight for best results. Rhythm section parts are notated with chords cued, and a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included. Duration ca. 3:15. standard jazz ensemble

This solid swing tune featuring an open solo section, modest brass ranges, and lots of full-ensemble scoring comes with a sheet of written solo lines for all instrument types for players with little or no improvisation experience. In his score notes, Doug cautions that horns should strive for a well-balanced sound in all ensemble sections, resisting the temptation to overblow. Rhythm section parts are notated with chords cued. Duration 3:15. standard jazz ensemble (playable by 12-17 pieces)

This contemporary Latin original for developing groups will showcase your band's ability to generate excitement, while also including some subtle musical effects. The rhythm section's driving groove will energize the horn section and the audience. Written or ad lib solo space is provided for tenor saxophone and trumpet. For great contrast, the composer suggests programming this chart right after an opener or an up tempo swing chart. Each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson. Duration 3:35. standard jazz ensemble plus opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba & vibes (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players)

Set in a moderate swing style, this solidly scored original by film composer Lennie Niehaus is a welcome addition to developing jazz ensemble literature. A strong introduction sets up the melody, which contains lots of variety and developmental material. Then a brief interlude announces the open solo section containing written and/or ad lib solos followed by a shout chorus before the D.S. al Coda. Each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson. Duration 5:40. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) with opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba & vibes

This dynamic blues shuffle offers optional written solos for alto, tenor, trumpet and/or trombone; the piano player has written solos at the beginning and end as well. For this chart to sound its best, the rhythm section must lay down a strong, swinging shuffle beat. Two 8-bar stop-time sequences demand all the authority and precision your band can muster. Rhythm section parts are partially notated with chords cued, and a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included. Duration 3:25. standard jazz ensemble

Named after a ski run in Vail, Colorado, this driving funk original with lots of audience appeal sports a solid introduction, tuneful melody and rich chord progression for developing groups. Written or ad lib solos are offered for all winds. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set. Duration 3:30. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) with opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba & vibes

Great ensemble work, solid voicings and a strong melody all combine to make this swing chart a great choice for developing groups. An open solo section with accessible chord changes further enhances the educational value, though written solos are provided for players lacking improvisation experience. Rhythm section parts are notated with chords cued. Duration 3:54. standard jazz ensemble (playable by 12-17 pieces) with opt. flute, clarinet & F horn

Here's a relaxed funk/rock original for developing groups that is guaranteed to be a hit at your next concert or festival appearance. It has two distinct sections and grooves, with a contrapuntal shout section that builds in intensity as it leads to a written or ad lib solo for trumpet. Since the entire harmonic background is built on the F7(#9) chord, your soloist can experiment with moving in and out of the tonality to create a sense of tension and release. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set. Duration 4:20. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) with opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba & vibes

This chart written especially for young groups includes a written or ad lib solo section that can be opened up for alto, tenor, trumpet and trombone. Crisp and accented figures will keep the chart moving forward and a soft ensemble section that provides great contrast. Following the solo section, the ensemble enters softly and together! standard jazz ensemble

Adapted for developing players from the version recorded by Count Basie, this bright swing journey provides room for a written or ad lib tenor sax solo and an optional improvised solo for guitar. For bands who can handle it, taking a tempo that's faster than the one indicated (quarter note = 208) will kick the excitement level up a notch! Duration 3:30. standard jazz ensemble

Originally scored in the late 1970's for the San Francisco Symphony Summer Workshop Jazz Band and recently updated for publication, this fantastic flag-waver for developing groups is the perfect program opener or closer. Set in a driving up-tempo swing feel, solos for alto sax and trumpet can be negotiated using the notes of a single scale. You'll also find some infectious sax section playing and a roaring shout chorus. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included. Duration 2:30. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) plus opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba and vibes

This solid original for developing groups contains all the great features we've come to expect from this talented writer. A series of musical motives are layered to create an interesting effect. Optional solos (as written or ad lib) are provided for alto sax, tenor sax, bari sax, trumpet and/or trombone. Each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson. Duration 5:05. standard jazz ensemble (Kendor Konvertible for 9-17 players) with opt. flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba and vibes